St Monica’s Catholic Primary School Achieves IQM Centre of Excellence Status

September 8, 2026

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St Monica’s Catholic Primary School has achieved IQM Inclusive School Award with Centre of Excellence Status. The assessment highlighted a school where inclusion is central to its identity and where the mission, ‘Success for all in a Christ Centred Community’ is much more than a statement of intent, it is lived and experienced throughout every aspect of school life. 

Success for All in a Christ Centred Community 

From the moment visitors enter the school, there is a sense of calm, belonging and purpose. The environment has been thoughtfully designed to support learning and emotional wellbeing. Gentle music welcomes pupils and visitors, displays celebrate achievement without creating sensory overload and there is a tangible sense that every decision has been made with inclusion at its heart. The school has developed a highly inclusive culture where every pupil is known, valued and supported to succeed. Staff share a collective understanding that inclusion is everybody’s responsibility and consistently demonstrate the school’s trauma informed approach. The principles of ‘connection before correction’ and ‘regulation before education’ are deeply embedded and are evident in interactions between adults and pupils across the school. 

Diversity Is Our Superpower

The promotion of diversity, equality and belonging is particularly strong. During the assessment, pupils confidently discussed different faiths, cultures and traditions as part of the school’s World Faiths Week celebrations. Children enthusiastically repeated the school message that: “Diversity is our superpower” and demonstrated a genuine appreciation of the importance of understanding and respecting others. Pupils are encouraged to celebrate differences, challenge stereotypes and recognise that diversity strengthens communities. One pupil remarked: “At St Monica’s not even a single kid is left out,” whilst another explained that respect means: “when somebody doesn’t have a friend you play with them.” These comments were representative of the culture observed throughout the visit. 

Supporting the Whole Child 

The school’s pastoral provision is a notable strength and reflects leaders’ commitment to meeting the needs of the whole child. Recognising the increasing prevalence of social, emotional and mental health needs, leaders have invested significantly in pastoral support and external partnerships. The appointment of a full-time Pastoral Lead, alongside strong relationships with agencies such as Parenting 2000, CAMHS and the Mental Health Support Team, ensures that pupils and families receive timely and appropriate support. Leaders understand that removing barriers to learning requires a holistic approach and work tirelessly to ensure that families receive the support they need.

Rich Opportunities for Every Pupil 

Pupils benefit from an extensive range of leadership opportunities, enrichment experiences, community projects and wider curriculum activities. Opportunities such as School Council, Eco Warriors, Mini Police and playground buddies enable pupils to contribute meaningfully to school life whilst developing leadership skills. One pupil explained how the School Council had introduced the ‘Bench Buddy’ system to ensure that children who were alone on the playground always had somebody to play with. Pupils spoke enthusiastically about visits to Chester Zoo, museums and the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, demonstrating strong recall of their experiences and the learning that had resulted from them. 

Partnerships That Change Lives 

Partnerships with parents, carers and families are a notable strength of St Monica’s Catholic Primary School. Parents consistently described the school as caring, approachable and unwavering in its commitment to supporting both children and their families. One parent commented: “The help and the way they have advocated for my children was astounding,” whilst another stated: “I can’t put into words how thankful I am for how they have supported me.” Parents spoke passionately about the difference that the school has made to their children and to their wider family lives. The strength of these relationships is a significant factor in the school’s success and reflects a culture where families are valued as partners. 

A Community Where All Pupils Flourish 

Throughout the assessment, there was overwhelming evidence that inclusion is central to the identity of St Monica’s Catholic Primary School. The school’s values are not simply displayed on walls but are lived authentically by all members of the community. Pupils are valued as individuals, diversity is celebrated and every effort is made to ensure that all pupils experience success and feel that they belong. The Headteacher, SENDCo, Senior Leadership Team, Governors and wider staff demonstrate a relentless commitment to ensuring that every pupil succeeds academically, socially and emotionally. 

Find Out More About IQM 

If your school is interested in achieving IQM Inclusive School Award, contact the IQM team on 028 7127 7857 or email admin@iqmaward.com. 

To find out more about IQM and request a free information pack, visit www.iqmaward.com.